Like Oil and Water

Oil and water don’t mix! Neither does work-based religion and a relationship with God by faith through Christ. In Mark 2:18-22 Jesus taught with three illustrations: fasting and feasting, wineskins, and patched garments to emphasize that He did not come to integrate or modify the Jewish religion but to fulfill the Law and replace the old covenant with a new one.  The new life found in Christ is based on His finished work on the cross and not based on anything we do or don’t do to deserve it. Ephesians 2:8-9 specifically pushes against the work-based religion.

While many know this to be true, there is a temptation to mix culture and religion. Cultural influences, lack of faith, or pressure to conform may lead to syncretism and a fusion of Christianity with culture or other religions.  As Jesus taught in Mark 2, the clothes will tear away from the patch, or the wineskins will burst.  We cannot mix the Gospel with other religions. There is only one way to God and eternity with Him, Jesus! John 14:6 points to the exclusivity of Christ. This may not be popular in our postmodern world, but it is truth that we must acknowledge and cling tightly to.